A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) vs. Canberra for Hiking, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Canberra can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spectacular, breathtaking, and other-worldly national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Canberra: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Canberra than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Canberra is better known for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more touristy than Canberra and is known for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves. Also, Canberra is famous for the Australian War Memorial.

How is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Canberra and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Canberra

Canberra is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Canberra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.


Is the Food Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Canberra

Dining out at restaurants in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Canberra can be an enjoyable experience.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Dining out in Canberra is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Canberra

Canberra is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Canberra. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Canberra

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Canberra is not a resort destination.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known as a popular and fun resort destination. While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Canberra is not a resort destination.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Canberra

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is terrific for its hiking trails. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

Many people include a hike when visiting Canberra. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Canberra

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Canberra.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra Better for Families?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Canberra

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.

Canberra is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Canberra

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

Canberra is a good national park for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Canberra

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra Better for Students?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Canberra

Canberra is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

Canberra is very popular with students. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Canberra

Canberra is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Canberra has some public transit options. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Canberra

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Canberra are notable when it comes to walkability.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable national park. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

For even more information, also check out Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting? and Is Canberra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

How long in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Canberra. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than in Canberra. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 2-3 days is enough time in Canberra.

Couples should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Canberra. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Canberra if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).


  • How many days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra? Ideal Length of Stay
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4 
    Canberra 2-3

One day in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra?

The beautiful national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Canberra. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A weekend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Canberra. It offers something for everyone. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the destination of Canberra. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.

Canberra is a great place to explore. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Canberra or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $152, while the average daily cost in Canberra is $134. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Canberra in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Canberra $83
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Canberra $166
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Canberra

Looking for a hotel in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)


Hotels in Canberra


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Canberra Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75
    Canberra $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Also for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Coach Transfer from Ayers Rock (Uluru) to Kings Canyon: $114

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Canberra

Also for Canberra, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Canberra city hotels to Eden Cruise Port: $83
  • Private Transfer from Canberra Airport CBR to Eden Cruise Port : $83
  • Osaka Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Downtown: $90
  • Guided Tour of Floriade Festival with Transfers: $117
  • Canberra to Canberra Int Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Canberra Int'l Airport to Canberra - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Canberra Airport (CBR) to Canberra - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Canberra?

Prices for flights to both Canberra and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $47
    Canberra $35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Base and Sunset Half-Day Trip with Opt Outback BBQ Dinner: $131
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $191
  • Uluru and Kata Tjuta Experience with BBQ Dinner: $205
  • Mount Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock including Dinner: $237

Typical Food Prices in Canberra

For Canberra, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    $16

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Canberra $17

Tours and Activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Self-Guided Driving Tour in Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park: $13
  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience from Ayers Rock including Sunset: $237
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $105
  • Discover Uluru: Aboriginal Art & Culture 4.5 Hours Tour: $170
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $142
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $65
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $60
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $67
  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $13
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $142

Tours and Activities in Canberra

For Canberra, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour in Canberra: $30
  • Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour: $14
  • Best of Wildlife and Birds Tour: $91
  • Building + Architecture Tour | 10am Daily: $13
  • Canberra Best of Wildlife Tour: $89
  • Canberra Floriade Tour: $120
  • Canberra Small Group Winery Tour: $151
  • Beer, Wine, and Spirits Tasting Tour: $112
  • City Highlights Day Tour with Entrance Fees: $117
  • Capital Christmas: Private Festive Tour in Canberra: $653
  • Discover Canberra’s Heritage: A Full-Day Private Tour: $880
  • Discover Pearls of Canberra - Private Walking Tour: $133

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Canberra $16

Typical Alcohol Prices in Canberra

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Canberra from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Bar
    $9.15

Sample the Local Flavors in Canberra

Also in Canberra, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Canberra Brewery and Beer Tour in 3 Hours: $98
  • Canberra Brewery Winery and Distillery Tour: $114
  • Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $121
  • CanBEERa Explorer: Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $125
  • From Winery, Distillery, & Tasting Tour with Lunch: $148
  • Canberra Wine Tour: $148
  • Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour /w lunch: $165


When comparing the travel costs between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Canberra, we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive? and Is Canberra Expensive?.


Related Articles for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)